A salt marsh is a coastal wetland that is inundated with seawater. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Some synonyms for salt marsh include tidal marsh, coastal marsh, brackish marsh, and estuarine marsh. Tidal marsh refers to salt marshes that are influenced by tides, while coastal marsh and estuarine marsh describe salt marshes with proximity to the coast and where freshwater and saltwater mix. Brackish marsh refers to salt marshes with low salinity levels. Regardless of the term used, salt marshes are essential habitats for many birds, fish, and invertebrates, and they help to protect coastlines from storm surges and erosion.